The last time you found yourself in a McDonald’s bathroom, what were you doing? Chances are that you had no thoughts of stealing from the restaurant. However, the same cannot be same for a local couple. A plumber and his wife have been arrested for stealing toilet flush valves from local McDonald’s restaurants. Although this may sound like a crazy store, this is exactly what Patrick Ring and Dianna Rodriguez were doing earlier this month.
Of course, they didn’t want the flush valves because their toilets at home were in need of repair. Instead, they were stealing these pieces and selling the metal for money. According to a report by MySanAntonio.com, the couple confessed on video tape that they begin stealing valves from McDonald’s bathrooms in December of 2012. They admitted to the same thefts at five locations around the city.
After stealing the flush valves, the duo was selling the parts to a local recycling company. Since the valves were made of brass, a metal that is currently in high demand, they were likely able to score a nice sum of cash. The same article from MySanAntonio.com claims that “they remain behind bars charged with two state jail felony counts of theft of aluminum/bronze/copper and other unrelated charges.”
The next time you find yourself in a McDonald’s bathroom you will likely notice the brass toilet flush valves. While you will likely avoid touching these at all costs, there are others who see dollar signs. Unfortunately for Ring and Rodriguez, they landed in jail due to a poor decision. When released, let’s hope they straighten up and stay away from local McDonald’s restaurants!
